By Panashe Karidzagundi
A seized beer auction by the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Beitbridge Rural, on Tuesday attracted more than 40 people, some from as far afield as Zezani, about 140 kilometres west of the border town of Beitbridge.
Other bidders were from Mapai and some outlying areas where a police operation against shebeens and some illegal beer outlets were raided across the district.
Speaking during the event, Sergeant Angela Chiumburu, the station’s Public Relations Officer, said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal alcohol trading and substance abuse in communities.
“We were only auctioning beers that were raided from shabins and unlicensed bars. People came from as far as Mapai and Zezani to attend the auction,” said Sgt Chiumburu.
She said illegal drinking spots contribute to social problems such as substance abuse, Gender Based Violence, early marriages and sexual abuse involving minors.
“These shebeens are unregistered bars and they are causing problems in society. When substance abusers become intoxicated, they go wild and the girl child becomes vulnerable to abuse,” she said.
Sgt Chiumburu said police have intensified operations against illegal gatherings and drinking parties known locally as “stockvels” or tea parties, she said have become hotspots for violent crimes.
“At Tshitulipasi we discovered these tea parties are all over Beitbridge District. An operation is underway to stop them because they are associated with seveal attempted murder and murder cases,” she said.
“Last week we received an attempted murder case linked to one of these gatherings where people contribute money to buy alcohol and later end up fighting.”
One of the auctioneers, Sergeant Major Tichareva Nyaku, described the event as fair and transparent, saying the auction prices ranged from R10 to R200 depending on the products and quantities.
“The highest bidders went away with the products. We also continue to preach the message of saying no to drugs and substance abuse,” said Sgt Maj Nyaku.
He said the public must drink alcohol responsibly and only in designated areas.
“People must drink responsibly and avoid public spaces. Alcohol should only be consumed at homes, licensed bars and approved special events,” he said.
Sergeant Tinashe Mangwana, who handled the financial side of the auction, said all proceeds collected would be deposited into Government accounts through police funds.
One of the bidders, Sinikhiwe Sibanda from Mapai, praised the auction after successfully purchasing beverages.
“I travelled all the way from Mapai after seeing the notice. I managed to buy beers worth R600 and it was a fair auction. They should continue doing this because some of us cannot afford to buy at normal prices,” Sibanda said.
The auction was conducted peacefully without any incidents being reported.